As we come to the end of a vibrant and productive Semester 1, I’d like to take this opportunity to reflect on the outstanding teaching and learning that has taken place across our school, and to share some of the exciting initiatives on the horizon for Semester 2.

Semester 1 Highlights

• Strong Academic Focus: Our teaching staff have continued to deliver engaging and challenging learning experiences aligned with the NSW Curriculum. Across all key learning areas, students have demonstrated solid progress, with formative and summative assessments helping to guide their development.
  
  
• Literacy and Numeracy Growth: This semester saw the continued implementation of school-wide strategies to boost literacy and numeracy. Our targeted initiatives have already shown positive early impact.
  
  
• NAPLAN & Assessment: Years 7 and 9 participated in the NAPLAN Online assessments. Year 9 students results were very pleasing showing that growth for this group across all testing domains was the highest in the Diocese.These results, along with ongoing classroom data, will inform targeted teaching moving forward.
  
  
• Professional Learning: Staff engaged in meaningful professional development focused on the use of formative assessment, inclusive teaching practices, and curriculum differentiation. This learning is directly enhancing classroom instruction and student outcomes.
  
  
• Curriculum Reforms: Planning is continuing across all faculties as part of the NSW Curriculum Reform. Faculty teams have continue reviewing Stage 4 - 6 syllabuses in line with the phased rollout, with a strong focus on clarity, coherence, and deep learning.
  
  

Looking Ahead – Semester 2 Opportunities

• Curriculum Planning & Renewal: We will continue preparing for the new curriculum implementation, with an emphasis on scope and sequence design, assessment alignment, and integrating general capabilities.
  
  
• HSC Trial Examinations: Term 3 will see our Year 12 students sitting their Trial HSC Examinations. Our teachers are committed to ensuring students are well-prepared through revision workshops, feedback sessions, and practice papers.
  
  
• Subject Selections for 2026: Year 8 and Year 9 students will be selecting their elective subjects for 2026. We will provide guidance to help students make informed choices aligned with their interests and aspirations.
  
  
• Continued Parent Partnerships: We remain committed to working in partnership with families. Parent-teacher interviews, ongoing reporting, and clear communication will continue to support a strong home-school connection.
  

Missed Assessment Tasks

A reminder that if you are absent for an assessment task, the Illness/Misadventure process must be followed and medical evidence provided. Please note: Only medical certificates from a Doctor or Pharmacist will be accepted. Online doctor certificates will not be accepted.

Thank you for your continued support throughout the Semester. We look forward to another rich and rewarding Term of learning in Semester 2.

Wishing everyone a safe and restful break.

Year 12 Food Technology Excursion - Woolworths Albion Park

Year 11 Cookery

Recently Mr Ferderer's Year 11 Cookery II class made a range of four soups to raise money for Vinnies. They learnt how to break a range of vegetables down into mirepoire cut. The class then sweated the range of soffrittos in a combination of oil and butter...butter for flavour (fat is flavour) oil to protect the butter from burning, to extract all the natural sweetness from the soffittos. Adding class made stocks and convenience stocks the soups were then boiled, simmered then seasoned and pureed to a fine texture. No one this year removed the immersions blenders too early either! The students then set up our bain marie and poured the hot soups into the gastronome trays to keep them out of the danger zone and ready to serve above 70c.

Look out for Tapas platters next term!

Year 8 HSIE

Over the past few weeks, Year 8 has been studying Medieval Europe.

Part of this study involved students identifying a Medieval Artefact they would like to replicate. They researched these artefacts, their design and use and then made them. The students have created some magnificent artefacts and should be very proud of themselves!

Recent News and Events

Year 12 Primary Teaching Experience at St Paul's - Term 2 & 3, 2025

Eight Year 12 students are currently engaged in a work experience program developed in partnership with our neighbour, St Paul’s. These students are assisting classroom teachers deliver lesson outcomes and offering one-on-one support to students. Feedback from the staff and students has been positive, commenting on how wonderful it is to see ex-St. Paul’s students return to the school with a passion for teaching and eager to pursue careers in the profession. The program will continue through Term 3, 2025.

Year 10 Crime Scene Investigation Workshop at Albion Park High - Week 9, Term 2, 2025

A select group of Year 10 students attended the two day workshop, gaining fascinating insight and first hand accounts of life as a police detective from former industry professionals. Students were immersed in multiple crime scene simulations, having to work in teams to complete forensic detective work and witness interviewing in order to solve the crimes. Through this program, students developed critical thinking and problem solving skills, along with effective communication and teamwork capabilities.

Upcoming Work Experience/Industry Networking Events

Illawarra Apprenticeship, Traineeship and Jobs Expo - 12 August 2025

What the event offers:

This is a fantastic opportunity to meet with over 30 exhibitors focusing on jobs, apprenticeship and traineeship opportunities, industry experts and professionals

The Expo is being held on Tuesday 12th August at the Illawarra Hockey Centre from 2pm – 7pm and is free to attend.

Community Care Sector - Work Readiness Program

What the program offers:

Students interested in career pathways in Child care or Aged Care -

This one day workshop will provide you with hands-on skill development and advice from industry professionals.

Work Ready Workshop – 14th August

Venue: Warilla Bowling Club – Diamond Room

closing date for EOI is 1st July 2025. (Students must submit a resume with the EOI)

For further information speak to Mr Morley

UOW News and Events

UOW Scholarships Updates

We are pleased to announce that a range of great UOW scholarships are now available for prospective students!

UOW Principal's Recommendation Scholarship – $5,000 scholarship for 1 year – The Principal of each school will recommend a student who applied via Early Admission to receive this scholarship

Academic Excellence Scholarships - $10,000 for 1 year – High Achieving 2025 UOW Early Admission offer holders to UOW Bachelor Degrees from a school in Illawarra, Sutherland or Shoalhaven

+ many more scholarships will start appearing in the weeks and months ahead! Stay tuned via the UOW Scholarships website.

Accommodation Applications Open

Applications to live at UOW accommodation are now open! Spots do fill up, so we recommend students who are thinking of moving to Wollongong in 2026 submit an application early. 

Find out more: https://www.uow.edu.au/study/accommodation/ 

Book a tour: https://www.uow.edu.au/study/visit/ 

 

UOW Management Cadetship

A UOW Management Cadetship is a great opportunity for motivated students. Management Cadets work full time at UOW as they study their degree, applying their classroom experience to a range of functions at the institution. Cadets are paid a competitive wage and graduate with no HECS. Applications to become one of 2 x Management Cadets for 2026 are now open and will close on 10 August. 

https://www.uow.edu.au/study/scholarships/domestic/cadet/ 

HSC Subject Support Bootcamps

UOW has in-person sessions run during the school holidays to assist students in their HSC. These sessions are designed to enhance students' understanding of key subject content and provide insights into what HSC exam markers look for. 

Year 12 Bootcamp events, Wollongong campus  

Dates: 8 July 2025

• English Advanced
• Math Advanced

Intensive Science events, Wollongong campus

Dates: 9 July 2025

• Year 12 Physics
• Year 11 Physics

These sessions have an $11 fee to cover materials and lunch.  Students can find out more and register via the website: https://future-students-events.uow.edu.au/Year11-12subjectsupport 

 

PECAN + CTF EVENT

PECAN+ is a national Capture The Flag (CTF) style cyber security competition for beginner, intermediate and advanced students in Years 10 to 12.  Compete in person to solve challenges, and uncover digital flags, in a range of topic areas including: cryptography; digital forensics; OSINT; reverse engineering; steganography; web exploitation and more.

Cost: FREE!

Dates: Saturday 23 August 2025 (Training Day) and Sunday 24 August, 2025 (Competition Day).

Location: Wollongong Campus - The University of Wollongong

Visit our website to find out more: https://future-students-events.uow.edu.au/pecan_ctf_2025 

NSW Schools Cup Netball

Years 7 - 8 Boys

Our Junior Boys Netball team were outstanding with an incredible undefeated run. All boys demonstrated great teamwork, focus and determination.

From the first whistle the boys took control of the game with sharp passing, strong defence, and spot on shooting. The fast- paced game kept the scoreboard ticking over and this continued for the remainder of the day.

What stood out most throughout the day was each player supported each other, communicated clearly on the court and showed great respect to opponents.

With all the wins it was a fantastic achievement that reflected their hard work and commitment. Congratulations boys so very proud of you all

 MVP : Jack Woodward

 Mrs Robinson

Years 9 - 10 Boys

Our Intermediate Boys' Netball Team had an outstanding day at the recent NSW Schools’ Cup, going undefeated throughout the day. From the first whistle, the team displayed incredible skill, smart play, and teamwork. Their ability to read the game, make quick decisions, refrain from stepping, and support each other on and off the court was a key factor in their success.

What stood out even more than their skill was their attitude. They played every game with fairness, respect, and great sportsmanship, earning praise from coaches, umpires, and opposing teams alike. Whether they were winning comfortably or facing a challenge, they remained focused, humble, and encouraging toward each other.

Well done to the team on a fantastic effort – not just for your winning streak, but for the way you represented your school with pride and integrity. These boys, along with the Junior Boys team, will compete in Shoalhaven to play regionals in Week 6 of next term.

MVP: Alex Sipka for his leadership in the attack end, his steady play and accurate shot.

Rugby 10's - Under 15 Boys - Jed Holloway Trophy

The boys competed in six games over two rounds, securing one win and five losses. For many of the team—some of whom had never played any form of rugby before—it was a steep learning curve. Despite the results, their unwavering determination shone through, culminating in a hard-fought victory over Shellharbour Anglican School, as well as two close contests against Edmund Rice College and Ulladulla High School.

Special recognition goes to two of our rugby newcomers who delivered standout performances despite their limited experience. Christian Oanea, our lightning-fast winger, lit up the field with a hat-trick of tries against Edmund Rice College. Equally impressive was Jackson Jongsma, who powered through six consecutive games in the front-row, relentlessly hitting rucks and making crucial tackles. In a remarkable final effort, Jackson somehow summoned the energy to break through several defenders from inside his own half and charge 60 metres to score—the stuff of front-row folklore.

Congratulations to all involved.
Mr Morley

Hockey

A massive congratulations to our Open Boys & Open Girls Hockey teams who took out the titles for the Diocesan Gala Day last week on Monday. The boys have made a huge progression from 3rd place last year to taking out the championships undefeated. The girls lost one game against St Mary’s and managed to draw with them overall in the grand final leading to a shared title. This is the Open girls 3rd year taking out the championship which is phenomenal.

Shout out to Max Elliott scoring 13 out of our 15 goals. Jayden Mare got the other 2 and Captain Breanna Cresswell who led from the front all day and embodied everything a Joeys captain should.

Two days later both teams headed to Bathurst to compete at the NSWCCC Championships. Our teams faced some serious competition and were both holding strong positions after day 1. Unfortunately day 2 saw both our teams just miss out on the semi finals. I want to thank Mr Shelton and Mr Denelly for their dedication to these teams.

Elite Athlete Program Day 3

This week our athletes had the privilege of attending UniActive to work with coach Jesse for the day. They were engaged in activities that ranged from growth mindset and how they can get out of their comfort zone, to building resilience and finding time to ‘zone out’ and reconnect with themselves. They were also challenged in a fast paced workout that focussed on speed, agility and plyometrics.

Next term the students will engage with their last Program day at Bai Med for post testing in their fitness components. They will also work with Sport Psychologist David Barracosa in mini workshops to improve their mental resilience and complete a nutrition practical session with Nicola Jaffrey from Embody Nutrition.

Applications for the 2025/26 program will open next term…stay tuned for further details.

Upcoming Team Nominations

Boys & Girls Cricket

Please fill in this form if you are interested in trialling for this year's Joey's Cricket Teams.

We will be looking to enter a range of competitions including:

- U15s Boys & Girls Diocesan Gala Day - T3

- 7-9 Berg Shield (Knockout) - T4

- Snr Boys Downey Shield (Knockout) - T4

Nominations close: Week 1, Friday 25th July

Nomination form: https://forms.gle/GaRScnYP3EoZnjXG6

Any questions, please see Miss Power.

 
U14 Boys & 7-9 Girls AFL

If you are interested in trialling for the school AFL teams, please fill in the below form.

The diocesan carnival is in Week 1 of Term 4.

Boys MUST NOT be turning 15 this year (2025).

Nominations close: Friday 25th July

Nomination form: https://forms.gle/WkbGHjEVjYAqGteT9

Open Girls Basketball Nomination

Please express your interest in trialling for the Open Girls Basketball team for 2025.

Nominations Close: Week 1, Friday 25th July

Nomination form: https://forms.gle/HXVHeojngQupwcWZ7

Rocky Trail - Wollongong Graduation Cup

This nomination form indicates your interest in the Mountain Biking Tournament. You will be required to externally register for the competition once entries open. The competition will take place on the last day of Term 3 (Friday 26th September).

 Information can be found here: https://rockytrailacademy.com/event/wollongong-graduation-cup-2025/

This race is for high school students, fostering a love for cycling in a fun and friendly environment. Experience the thrill of competition with 3 timed stages and 5 runs per track to find your fastest time per track.

The three distinct tracks catering to different abilities, riders can find their flow and challenge themselves at their own pace. With a focus on endurance, speed, and technical skills, there’s a track for everyone – the Academy is the perfect stepping stone into the world of mountain biking.

Riders compete for grade-based category podium positions for girls and boys – Year 7+8 (Junior), Year 9+10 (Intermediate) and Year 11+12 (Senior). Racers also earn points for their school, competing for the Champion School title. The flexible format, with no strict start orders, allows for a relaxed and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Nominations close: Friday 25th July

Nomination Form: https://forms.gle/sWQHavZBHC4aeyfS9

2025 SJCHS TRIVIA FUNDRAISER -  REPRESENTATIVE SPORT

Come join our 2025 St Joseph’s Catholic High School Trivia night that is fundraising for our school representative sport teams for 2026. All funds raised will go towards new team uniforms, updated sporting equipment and assisting with transport costs.

The theme for the night is ‘Countries of the World’, so come dressed in your best costume attire.

Tickets are $80 per table with 8-10 people. BYO snacks, drinks and table decorations.

PLEASE NOTE: This is an adults only event with no students able to attend.

We will have a raffle available on the night and prizes to be won for best dressed, winning tables as well as other competitions on the night.

There will be plenty of games on the night to buy in on, so please bring some cash to join in on these games and there will be prizes for best dressed and winning tables.

Donations: If you or someone you know is able to donate to this year's Trivia, please get in contact with Miss Power (powers01@dow.catholic.edu.au). Thank you for your support.

Individual Sporting Success

Congratulations to Taj who attended the U15 Boys NSW All Schools Netball trials. He made it through to the Possibles and Probables but was not selected in the final team. A great learning experience for him.

Congratulations to Cody Cartwright and Callum Attard along with their U18s & U16s Illawarra teams, who have both taken out the 2025 Country Baseball Championships.

If your child has had sporting success outside of school we want to hear about it.

Please email details through to Miss Power (powers01@dow.catholic.edu.au)

St Joseph's Sport Instagram Page

For all things sport follow our social media page

SJCHS SPORTS

Our SRC and YML students recently had the opportunity to participate in an information session with guest speakers from Vinnies. Students gained a deeper understanding of the vital work Vinnies does to support people experiencing hardship in our community. The presentation highlighted real life stories and inspired students to consider how they, too, can make a difference through service.

As part of the session, students were introduced to the Vinnies Service Medallion (VSM), a program that recognises and celebrates the contributions of secondary students (Years 7–12) to community service, leadership, advocacy, and fundraising. Through this program, students can gain real world skills and experience, make a tangible impact on their local community, and receive formal recognition for completing each stage of the program.

We extend our sincere thanks to Ms Kelly McCrohon and Mr TonyYoung for providing such valuable information to our students.

Our Year 9 and 10 Visual Arts students recently visited Bluescope as part of their study into the Industrial environment. The tour offered a unique opportunity to explore the dynamic landscape of one of our region’s most iconic industries, inspiring students as they prepare for their upcoming making assessment.

Students were fascinated by the scale and structures of the environment, and left feeling energised and full of ideas for their artworks and possible future career opportunities.

A big thank you to Inside Industry for facilitating the tour, and to Ms Wilson and Ms Easter for their support in making this valuable learning experience possible.

On Thursday 5th of June, a lecturer of first-year Physics at the University of Wollongong, Dr Dean Cutajar, visited our Year 12 HSC physics class to provide an immersive, university-style, crash-course on electromagnetism. The students were fortunate enough to experience a small taste of what life after school might be like for them as they diligently continue to prepare for the HSC.

The experienced lecturer taught a cohesive program that revised much of what they had learned previously, but unified and extended that content in a way that will prepare them for their upcoming trials. This lecture continued from first period well into recess as both Dean and Year 12 couldn't get enough out of a very rewarding and illuminating experience.

Our Year 10 Skills for Work students are currently constructing shop fronts for students at St John's Dapto.

They have currently been working in groups on the frames for the shop fronts and are cutting the frames with a circular saw and then hammer and nailing frames together.

CAN DRIVE

CatholicCare courses are Now Open for enrolments! Their range of Courses focus on: 

•    strengthening relationships
•    parenting
•    post-separation
•    supporting parents with children in care
•    managing challenging emotions
•    grief and loss

Courses are held in a supportive environment with others who share similar life challenges. 

They are held online or in-person at our Nowra, Campbelltown and Wollongong offices. Please see below flyer which outlines the courses and dates:

Last Chance to get your Tickets!!

Get ready to be totally bend and snapped into action! Joey's latest school musical, "Legally Blonde Jr." 

Tickets are still on sale now for Friday 4th July and Saturday 5th July. Use the QR code in the attached poster or this Trybooking link to get your tickets.

https://www.trybooking.com/DBZNB

See you at the show!

The Uniform Shop will continue to trade throughout the school holidays as per below:

Dapto Retail Store

2 Marshall Street, Dapto NSW 2530

• Tuesday 8:00 am - 12:30 pm
• Wednesday 1:00 pm – 5:30 pm
• Thursday 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
• Saturday 9:00 am – 1:00 pm

Ph: 02 7259 9200

Online uniform orders during the school holidays will need to be picked up from the Dapto Outlet. Online deliveries to the school each Tuesday will resume after the school holiday break.

Thank you from Perm-A-Pleat